Experiencing a toothache emergency can be distressing, especially when immediate dental care isn’t readily available. Here are some steps to manage the situation until you can see a dentist:
- Clean the area: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected tooth and remove any food particles or debris that may be causing irritation.
- Pain relief: Take over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to help alleviate the pain. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief.
- Saltwater rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Avoid aggravating foods: Stay away from hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages that can worsen tooth sensitivity and pain. Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate the affected tooth.
- Over-the-counter remedies: Consider using over-the-counter dental numbing gels or pain-relief patches that contain benzocaine. These can provide temporary relief by numbing the area around the tooth.
- Elevate your head: When lying down, elevate your head with an extra pillow to help reduce blood flow to the affected area and alleviate pressure on the tooth, which may help ease the pain.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco can irritate the gums and worsen toothache pain. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption until you can see a dentist.
- Use dental floss: Gently floss around the affected tooth to remove any trapped food particles or plaque that may be contributing to the pain. Be gentle to avoid causing further irritation.
- Temporary filling: If a filling has fallen out or a tooth has chipped, you can use temporary dental filling material or dental cement from a pharmacy to cover the exposed area and protect the tooth until you can see a dentist for permanent restoration.
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical attention immediately as these may indicate a serious infection or other underlying health issue. Delaying treatment for dental emergencies can lead to complications, so it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment